# Heavy Rain Keeps River Levels High as Minor Flood Risk Emerges in Several Areas

- Link: https://www.weather.lk/heavy-rain-keeps-river-levels-high-as-minor-flood-risk-emerges-in-several-areas/
- Published: 2026-09-21T14:57:46+05:30
- Author: Weather LK

Heavy rainfall has continued across several parts of Sri Lanka, with the **Western,
North Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces**, along with the **Galle, Matara, Kandy,
Nuwara Eliya and Matale districts**, recording significant amounts of rain.

The Irrigation Department says rainfall has eased slightly compared with recent 
days, but heavy showers are still being reported in many areas.

Director of Irrigation Engineer **L.S. Sooriyabandara** said the upper catchment
areas of the **Kelani River** had received between **100 mm and 125 mm of rainfall**
by this morning. Most other river basins recorded between **50 mm and 80 mm** during
the past 24 hours.

He explained that rainfall exceeding **200 mm two days ago** had caused water levels
in the upper catchment areas of the **Gin and Nilwala rivers** to rise. As a result,
there is a **minor flood risk** in areas including **Baddegama, Udugama, Akuressa
and Thalgahagoda**.

Water levels in the **Kuda River**, a tributary of the Kalu River, have also increased
around **Millakanda** and are approaching minor flood levels. Meanwhile, water levels
in the **Kelani River at Hanwella and Avissawella** remain high.

The Irrigation Department said water levels in the **Mahaweli River at Nawalapitiya
and Peradeniya**, as well as the **Attanagalu Oya**, are currently falling. However,
they remain close to warning levels.

Reservoir storage managed by the Irrigation Department is currently estimated at
around **34% to 35% of total capacity**. Most of these reservoirs are located in
the dry zone, where rainfall has been relatively limited.

However, increased rainfall in the upper Mahaweli basin has led to a significant
rise in water levels at reservoirs including **Kotmale and Polgolla**.

The Irrigation Department has strongly advised the public **not to enter flooded
areas or engage in water sports during these conditions**. Entering fast-flowing
or inundated areas can be extremely dangerous, and the public is urged to follow
official safety advice as rainfall and river levels continue to change.

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